bilbao san sebastián€¦ · the guggenheim museum of bilbao. frank gehry's stunning...

All of the TOP experiences detailed inin this catalogue are subject to change and may be updated. Therefore, we advise you to check the website for the most up to date prices before you book your trip.

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Vitoria-Gasteiz

Bilbao San Sebastián

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If you explore the history of the figures who have marked the personality of these communities, you will discover how their maritime, industrial and agricultural character, always diverse and enterprising, has been bred.

And if you find the coastal and inland villages interesting, you will be fascinated by the three capitals. Bilbao will surprise you with its transformation from an industrial city to an avant garde metropolis, that brings together the world's best architects. San Sebastián, exquisite and unique, will seduce you with its beautiful and stately setting. Vitoria-Gasteiz will show you its rich heritage and why it sets a worldwide benchmark in urban planning.

Eating and drinking well in the Basque Country is a luxury everyone can afford: sample the local and seasonal products in the shape of pintxos (local tapas), and enjoy a fine wine from the Rioja Alavesa, a txakoli sparkling wine or cider.

Enjoy the chance to experiment with food and observe the way of life in the Basque Country.

You are about to embark on an adventure with many attractions: a varied landscape, a mild climate, ancient culture, renowned gastronomy... These are the nuances that make the Basque Country a tourist destination you will be delighted to discover.

Two colours will accompany you on your journey through the Basque Country: the green of the mountains and valleys, and the blue of the sea.

You will discover that the Basque people maintain strong links with the natural resources of the land and the sea. The defining features of the Basque character were forged by deeply rooted customs, rich culture and local sports.

To better understand the nature of the Basque people it is important that you immerse yourself in its traditions, exploring the fishing ports and the life of the countryside...

On the coast you will see how the Cantabrian Sea has marked the personality of the neighbouring villages. You will also notice the difference between their inhabitants and the inland people.

San Sebastián seductive regiona varied and

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f any city is a benchmark for tourists it is unquestionably Bilbao.

You will be surprised by its conversion from an industrial centre into a model city designed for living. Everything began with the Guggenheim Museum of Bilbao. Frank Gehry's stunning architecture and the varied art gallery with its incomparable display of contemporary art will leave you amazed. The international projection

of Bilbao provoked by the “Guggenheim effect" is unquestionable. Opposite the museum is Puppy, its mascot, Jeff Koons's floral dog. A snapshot with the faithful watchdog is a must.

But the change goes far beyond a landmark building. The result is a city that has reinvented itself, starting from the metro where Sir Norman Foster masterfully combined architecture and engineering. “Fosteritos”, is the name affectionately given to the unique street level metro entrances. You will also be surprised at the creativity of Philippe Stark in La Alhóndiga: an old wine warehouse now converted into a multicultural centre.

Bilbao has opted for design as the basis of its renovation as a city

The leading lights of the new Bilbao are the internationally

famous architects who have left their mark on its spectacular

buildings

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BILBAOa city of design

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Amongst these signature works you will also find the Iberdrola Tower, designed by César Pelli, the tallest building in the Basque Country, and the Isozaki Towers. Don't miss the chance to cross the Santiago Calatrava bridge opposite, the "Zubi Zuri". He also designed the airport terminal, La Paloma (The Dove), that evokes a bird about to take flight.

Take a walk around the Avenida de Abandoibarra, a lively place where tourists and the people of Bilbao can relax and marvel at the wonderful designs. Take the opportunity to visit the Bellas Artes Museum (Fine Arts Museum), which houses works by

El Greco, Sorolla, Gauguin and Zurbarán, amongst many others.

In El Ensanche avant garde buildings stand side-by-side those erected by the new bourgeoisie: the modernist Concordia Station, the Palace of the Diputación (Provincial Chambers) and the beautiful Café Iruña in the Gran Vía next to the Albia Gardens, and the Campos Elíseos Theatre amongst others.

Taking in Abando, the Gran Vía and the Casco Viejo you will enjoy Bilbao's modern shopping facilities with their reputation for elegance and sprinkling of world-famous firms.

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Guggenheiminside and outThe privilege of discovering unknown

corners, seeing how they prepare the

exhibitions, exploring the inside and out-

side of the museum as a fun activity and

topping it off with avant garde gourmet

cuisine is an experience that goes be-

yond a mere museum tour.


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If the Guggenheim Bilbao surprised you, get ready for the special charm of the Casco Viejo. You will see how much it is loved by

the local people. This is the Bilbao that was born around the Ría Estuary in 1300. Today, the ancient heart of Bilbao is still full of life

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the Casco Viejo (Old Town) originated in its famous 7 Calles (Seven Streets): Somera, Artekale, Tendería, Belostikale, Carnicería

Vieja, Barrenkale and Barrenkale Barrena. Txikitear (having a few wines) in these streets is a must. You will encounter a universe imbued with a special atmosphere: that of the pintxo bars.

Day or night, in the Plaza Nueva, Jardines Street or in Santa Maria you will find a multitude of places to try them. If you decide to eat at one of the restaurants in the area you may find a group of diners singing over dessert. This is still a very common custom in these parts.

The Casco Viejo is full of life at any time, night or day

The commercial tradition of the Casco Viejo of Bilbao is legendary. Variety and quality awaits you in more than 400 shops of all kinds: shops full of the charm of past eras, street markets, a selection of fashion houses with the latest trends, 200 catering establishments... and the “good old" La Ribera Municipal Market, as the people of Bilbao would say. Did you know that it is Europe's largest covered market?

In Bilbao, the devotion of its inhabitants to the Virgen de Begoña is the origin of a multitude of celebrations. You can visit her by ascending the 311 steps of the Calzadas de Mallona, beginning at the Plaza de Unamuno, or by taking the lift which will leave you nearby. The La Salve Bridge or Hail Mary Bridge is so called because it marks the point where sailors setting out to sea offered a “hail Mary" as the Basilica of Begoña disappeared from sight.

The city is called botxo (the hole), by the inhabitants because it is located in a valley. If you take the Artxanda funicular railway you will get an extraordinary view of the botxo, where “greenery meets the skyscrapers.”

You will find the genuine, bustling Bilbao in the medieval area of its Casco Viejo, a National Heritage Site. The gothic Santiago Cathedral, so named because it stands right on the Santiago Pilgrimage Coastal Route, the Plaza Nueva, the biggest and oldest in Bilbao, the San Antón Church, with the ancient ruins forming its foundations, the neo-baroque Arriaga Theatre, and the Arenal Gardens are all outstanding... It is delightful to stroll around 700 years of uninterrupted culture and growth.

Take time to relax and make the most of the celebrated cafés to hand.

If you are here in the second week of August you will be able to take part in the Aste Nagusia (the Great Week), in which Marijaia (the Lady of the Celebrations) deploys all her gaity.

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Bilbao at your feet...

Take a guided walk through the 7 Calles and the banks of the Ría and go up to Artxanda...Bilbao is at your feet.

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THE RÍA

rom the town's creation until the present day, the Ría

Estuary has played a key role in the development of Bilbao and

the Basque economy.

The fact that it is navigable as far as Portugalete enabled the establishment of important shipyards on its banks until the mid 1980s. Today the Ría still plays a leading role, but now as a source of enjoyment for the people of Bilbao and visitors.

The history of the Ría is the history of its bridges: the San Antón Bridge is part of the town's coat of arms. The La Ribera Bridge belongs to the old Bilbao that began to be modernised alongside the La Merced Bridge, as far as the Arenal Bridge, which gives onto El Ensanche.

Bridges and walkways unite the new and the old Bilbao

The Zubi Zuri Bridge, the La Salve Bridge, the Pedro Arrupe Walkway and the Euskalduna Bridge lead to a new Bilbao. The latter is located over the old site of the famous Euskalduna shipyards, where today the Congress and Music Centre, is to be found. Alongside you will find the Maritime Museum and opposite, one of the cranes of the old shipyard: Carola.

A visit to Metropolitan Bilbao and its surrounding area will give you a glimpse into its maritime history.

Plays a key role in the city

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Since the opening of the metro, the beach has become far more accessible for the people of Bilbao. The two banks of the river are very different. The left bank takes you through working districts such as Barakaldo or Sestao, where the famous Altos Hornos (blast furnaces) were found. From Portugalete you can cross the Ría by the Vizcaya Bridge or take in the views from the upper walkway. Before, try some sardines in the port of Santurtzi.

Getxo awaits on the right bank with its Las Arenas and Neguri districts, close to the Leisure Port with its bars and restaurants. Passing the Ereaga Beach you arrive at the Puerto Viejo de Algorta (Old Port of Algorta), where the charm of the fishermens' houses will seduce you. If you take the metro you will get to the fishing village of Plentzia, with its small craft used for catching txipiron (baby squid).

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Sailing on the RíaDo you want to see Bilbao from a

different perspective? Take a boatride

and you will see landmark buildings and

the changing rhythm of the city, the Ria's

left and right banks, and a chance to

discover the past, present and future of

Greater Bilbao... All this and more from

a privileged viewpoint: a boat trip on the

Nervión River.


The opening of the metro brought the beach close to Bilbao

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If you have followed our suggestions you will have more than an inkling of the nature of this great capital city: the Ría and the Casco Viejo, the great urban renewal, the Guggenheim and the regeneration Bilbao is undergoing. But there's more.

A day at the beach - or at the seaside - is always a good idea. Take the metro line 1 or 2 to Getxo or Portugalete, get off and cross the Ría using the Vizcaya Bridge.

The fourth day of your stay in Bilbao could be your chance to visit the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. On the way, don't miss the nearby Gernika-Lumo, where you will find the Casa de Juntas (Assembly House) or Biscay Parliament, in front of which stands the Gernika tree, symbol of Basque liberty. From there you can visit tiny valleys that open onto a delightful estuary with extensive wetlands that sustain a rich natural wildlife. Watching the change of tides from Sukarrieta is a worthwhile experience. Nearby, Bermeo, Mundaka, Elantxobe and Ea are some of the lovely villages where the cuisine is out to captivate you.

Very close to Bermeo, nestled against Cabo Matxitxako, is San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a precarious chapel erected on a coastal islet reached by a twisting footpath with 231 steps. Afterwards, why not reward yourself with some txakoli sparkling wine of Bakio.

About twenty-five kilometres inland from Bilbao we find the district known as Las Encartaciones. This is a lovely spot with attractions like the Pozalagua caves, unique for their eccentric stalactites, the classic car museum in the Loizaga Tower and the famous putxera (kidney bean stew) of Balmaseda.

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... and if you have a weekIf you can stay three more days, visit the Oma Forest, via the Kortezubi road. There you will find a surprising land art composition of painted tree trunks by Agustín Ibarrola. The Santimamiñe Cave is also close by.

If you stay another day you'll be able to visit the villages of Lekeitio – with its island and the Karraspio Beach – and Ondarroa. Stroll along the piers, beaches and streets and try some delicious fish from the Cantabrian Sea.

We recommend a mountain excursion for your seventh day. Mount Gorbea, 1,482 metres high, is one of the most popular peaks. You approach it through the Arratia valley from the village of Zeanuri, and at the top you'll find an iron cross almost eighteen metres high. You will always find mountaineers of all ages ascending and descending the slopes. The views are spectacular.

If you have young children we suggest another natural surrounding: the Urkiola Natural Park which can be reached from Durango.

You can walk along the trails and enjoy the scenery offered by the neighbouring Mount Anboto, or learn about the traditions of the Urkiola Sanctuary, the scene of colourful pilgrimages.

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when you visit the city it will be love at first sight: On

arrival you will want to take a stroll along La Concha. Walk on the sand at the water's edge from the Alderdi Eder Gardens to El Peine del Viento (The Comb of the Wind), by Chillida and Peña Ganchegui, leaving the Ondarreta Beach to one side.

Paradise surrounds the bay: the peaks of Igueldo, Urgull and Ulía; Santa Clara Island, the Urumea River and its bridges, and the Zurriola Beach with its powerful waves are all magnificent natural features of San Sebastián.

This urban beach is only a few metres from downtown San Sebastián, which makes it very popular for all kinds of water sports, especially surfing and body-boarding.

One look at the bay and its

three beaches will make you

want to discover all its secrets

SAN SEBASTIÁNmore than just an incredible backdrop

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Beautiful, elegant and stately

San Sebastián offers visitors a wide variety of activities, including relaxing ones such as massages and thalasso-therapy sessions, or walks through the romantic downtown area.

You may choose to joy around the stunning circuit from El Peine del Viento to Sagües, by the Paseo Nuevo, or along the banks of the Urumea. San Sebastián is also perfect to enjoy by bike. The bidegorris (bike lanes) will take you to any part of the city.

Find the river: the Urumea. The bridges joining the Gros district and the city centre give the River Urumea a unique personality.

There is a wide variety of themed-tours that enable you to experience San Sebastián from a different angle.

You'll find that San Sebastián is always charming, in sunshine or in rain...

www.sansebastianturismo.com

more than just an incredible backdrop

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The Pearl of the

Cantabrian SeaTake a walk along La Concha to the base of Mount Igueldo. There you can take the funicular railway, opened by Queen Maria Cristina in 1912, to enjoy excellent views of the city and the Basque Coast.


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learn the secrets and keys to success of San Sebastián's cuisine with a tour of the bars of the Parte Vieja (Old Quarter), the Centro (downtown), and

the Antiguo or Gros. Taste their suggestive pintxos, which a little bite-size creations, while enjoying some txakolis, ciders or wine from the Rioja Alavesa. This is the kind of small-scale cooking that captivates more and more people every day.

One Basque custom consists in having a “Gilda” (pintxo made of chili pepper with olives and anchovy) to accompany a pre-lunch glass of wine. Many bars have a range of innovative pintxos on offer to whet your appetite.

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Here in San Sebastián our table is adorned with a 16-star tablecloth

San Sebastián and its surroundings are strewn with the stars that, year after year, the influential Michelin Guide awards to the best cooks in the world. Martin Berasategui, Juan Mari Arzak, Pedro Subijana, Andoni Luis Aduriz and Rubén Trincado, along with their colleagues in other Basque regions, have made San Sebastián's cooking the main tourist attraction of the Basque Country.

But these culinary stars also belong, in a certain way, to every pintxo bar, restaurant, cider bar and grill house that enriches the capital and its surroundings. The gastronomic quality is outstanding. The locals will often be able to suggest a place where you can find your preferred dish.

In the grill houses they will offer you impressive T-bone steaks or charcoal-grilled fish. The doors of an impeccably attended restaurant are open to you in any corner of San Sebastián.

But to really appreciate the atmosphere of the city it is essential to explore the Parte Vieja. This is where you will find the streets and the bars scattered along them full of life and movement.

one of the keys to the culinary success of San Sebastián is the excellent seafood and caserío (typical Basque farmhouse)

products. Allow time in your plans to fit in a visit to the La Bretxa Market in the Parte Vieja, or the one in San Martín downtown. You will see professional and amateur cooks of all kinds discussing the qualities of some carrots or the origin of a sea bass with the vendors. It is not unusual to see three-star chefs like Arzak or Subijana in these markets... along with housewives and other lovers of top quality products!

world capital of the PINTXO

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Route of Pintxos

If you don't know anyone in the city who can show you this peculiar circuit, take a professional to guide you through the Route of the Pintxos. They will show you the top spots and tell you curious stories about the city. The gastronomic richness of San Sebastián is extraordinary.

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There's a reason why San Sebastián has been designated “European Capital of Culture 2016”…! Cultural life is intense here… From its popular –the Tamborrada (Procession of drums) on January 20– to the prestigious International Film and Jazz Festivals. Makes San Sebastián a world renowed cultural haven.

The city of film and culture

Hundreds of artistic and cultural events follow one another in quick

succession and involve the entire city

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catherine Deneuve, Glenn Close, Woody Allen… and many more have experienced it in person.

Beyond the cinematographic festival, San Sebastián itself is a huge film set.

Directors, actresses and actors, scholars and critics over the last sixty years have fostered an incredible love of the cinema that permeates the whole life and activity of San Sebastián. The Tourist Office also organises a guided tour to learn about San Sebastián through the magic of the silver screen. It is worthwhile allowing yourself to be guided through the Boulevard, La Concha Beach and the área romántica (romantic area)… The film city!

The seventh art impregnates the very air of San Sebastián: witness the Hotel María Cristina, the Victoria Eugenia Theatre or the Kursaal Conference Centre and Auditorium.

www.sansebastianreservas.com

www.sansebastianfestival.com

In the European Capital of Culture 2016 the cultural encounters and events follow one another in quick succession. One classic is the International Jazz Festival and another outstanding occasion is the Quincena Musical (Musical Fortnight). There is also the Mountain and Sea Diving Contests and Fantasy Film Festival.

And if you are a science and space enthusiast Eureka! Zientzia Museoa (the Science Museum) invites you to take part in amazing experiences, with new events every week.

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San Sebastián's, neighbourhoods have

schools, workshops and cultural centres

that foster the creative exchange of ideas

and social transformation.

A succession of celebrations, conventions,

events and festivals exclusively related to

the European Capital of Culture 2016 will

take place during the coming years.

www.sansebastian2016.eu

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T H E B A S Q U E C O U N T R Y C I T Y B R E A K G E TA W A Y S

The agenda for enjoying two more days in San Sebastián contains several stunning sites based on this part of the Basque Coast. At Zumaia, the spectacular cliffs leave the ecological phenomenon called flysch in full view, one of the best places in the world to learn about the millions of years of history of our planet, and a unique landscape that stretches all the way to Deba, running through Mutriku. You can learn more about them by taking a coastal trek, following the Camino de Santiago (Santiago Pilgrimage Route), or on a boat trip.

In Getaria, in addition to its highly appreciated txakoli sparkling wine, you will find the original Cristóbal Balenciaga Museum. Close by, Zarautz is known for its beach, one of the international sanctuaries of surfing.

A fourth day of your stay in this Basque capital could be spent at the Aia Forest, near Orio, or be used to relax in the Zestoa spa. Ekainberri, an interpreted replica of the Ekain caves and cave paintings, is an enjoyable way to learn about prehistoric times.

Very close to San Sebastián, the towns of Astigarraga and Hernani will introduce you to the world of cider. The best time to experience it is between January and May. Sagardoetxea, or the Basque Cider Museum, offers a varied programme of activities throughout the year.

If you have a free afternoon, visit Hondarribia, near Irún, to enjoy the scenery of the Txingudi Bay. This seaside town has a lively fishing district and beautiful beaches and walks in the surrounding hills.

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At this point in your journey you have got to know San Sebastián and its surroundings fairly well, but if you're lucky enough to have a whole week why not enjoy yourself even more? To do so you can take the Idiazabal Cheese Route. This is an inland tour taking in the Natural Parks of the Aralar and Aizkorri mountain ranges and the homesteads and caseríos where cheese is made. But since it's a case of making the most of your time, concentrate on the Idiazabal Cheese Museum, the Pasture Ecomuseum in Legazpi, the rural market at Ordizia or on the D´elikatuz Food and Gastronomy Interpretation Centre. Another Natural Park close to San Sebastián is that of Aiako Harria, with its dozens of mine shafts and galleries.

Also, for the children, the Tolosa's International Puppet Centre –Museo Topic– recreates the great puppet tradition. Tolosa is one of the districts that best conserves the original essence of its carnivals (inauteriak) free of commercial or media influences. When you visit the town try the delicious kidney beans (babarrunak) and the tejas and almond waffles (cigarrillos).

Close by in Azpeitia, is found the Sanctuary of Saint Ignatius of Loyola with its impressive basilica. You can also take the excursion to the Basque Railway Museum. In Zumarraga you will find the La Antigua Chapel, and in Oñati the Sanctuary of Arantzazu, where the sculptor Jorge Oteiza left his mark. The tour through Ignatius country will lead you to the valley of the Urola River, the origin of some of the most beautiful pages in the history of Gipuzkoa in the sixteenth century on the life and works of the founder of the Society of Jesus.

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VITORIA-GASTEIZa city designed for living

those who live here say that it is a convenient and agreeable city.

On foot or by bicycle, Vitoria-Gasteiz is accessible to all. There

are urban trails, or bike lanes (bidegorris). They travel throughout the city, linking together the Green Belt. If you haven't brought your bike you can rent one from the municipal service.

The Green Belt is the natural perimeter of the capital of Alava. There are 47 kilometres of tracks and trails through the parks surrounding the urban area, from Alegría, Armentia, Olarizu, Salburua, Zabalgana, the banks of the Zadorra, Berrostegieta and Errekaleor to Lasarte. A green landscape of forests, rivers and all sorts of fauna and flora.

Vitoria-Gasteiz has grown while respecting its surroundings and its rich natural heritage. The Salburua wetlands, huge lagoons a few kilometres from the center, are host to herds of deer and thousands of waterfowl. The Ataria Interpretation Centre will enable you to see them close up.

Vehicles are not necessary to travel around the Basque capital or to visit these natural areas. Vitoria-Gasteiz is one of the European cities with the most green area per capita, and has been designed for the pedestrian. This is illustrated by walks like El Batan, La Senda-Fray Francisco

Vitoria-Gasteiz combines technological and industrial

activity with wide open spaces and pedestrian and sports areas.

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Cervantes to the hill of the Basilica of San Prudencio de Armentia, parks such as La Florida, San Martin, Arriaga, Judimendi, the Green Belt... Routes that will enable you to enjoy beautiful natural views at any time of year.

Leaving the city to the south you will find the Mountains of Vitoria that are a must for any keen hikers. Going through Berrostegieta and Mendizorrotza you can reach the Zaldiaran, Errogana and Arrieta

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summits. To the north, you can trek the Badaia, Arrato and Elgea ranges.

At the Ullibarri-Ganboa and Santa Engracia reservoirs you can enjoy the country around Landa, Erpidea, Garaio, Marieta and Legutiano for sunbathing, windsurfing, swimming or kite flying.

A bird's eye view

Vitoria-Gasteiz's "green" status is due to its devotion to natural resources. We recommend a visit to Atari, a facility in the Salburua Park, where you can see a multitude of birds.Another interesting option, although only practicable at certain times of year, is to take a bird's eye view of the city by balloon.


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“you will experience History as never before”

IN THE AL ENDRA EDIEVAL OLD QUARTER

the Almendra Medieval (Medieval Almond), so named for its oval shape, is found within the urban green belt. It is the oldest part

of the capital, located on a hill called Gasteiz back in the year 1000. Probably the first recommendation any gasteiztarra (Vitorian) would give you would be to visit the Santa María Cathedral. Authors such as Toti Martinez de Lezea and Ken Follett were inspired by this place and made it the setting of some of their books. The long restoration of the gothic cathedral has become a unique and highly sought-after activity for tourists and history lovers who appreciate how the building was constructed. Over a million visitors have toured its naves, atrium, walls and triforium.

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Put on your safety helmet and let a professional guide show you the history of the cathedral through its passageways and restoration work. If you climb up the tower, you will get unparallelled views of the Almendra Medieval Old Quarter.A set of lights in the Portico of the Light will take you through the evolution of the multicoloured wonder of the Paternina Chapel from the 16th century onwards.


www.catedralvitoria.com

The secretsof a Cathedral

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“you will experience History as never before”

w hen you continue your tour of the Casco Antiguo (Old Quarter) you will visit the City Walls, the Bibat (Museum of Playing Cards and Archeology) and the Escoriaza-Esquivel and

Montehermoso Palaces. Escalators take you to the top of the Almendra Medieval Old Quarter, where you will be welcomed by an innovative social and cultural life.

Casco Antiguo is home to a restless cultural avant-garde. One of its latest ideas is the mural itinerary that covers old facades and walls with giant murals full of colour by young artists who are becoming influential in avant-garde European art.

Notice that the names of the streets of the Casco Antiguo: Cuchillería (cutlers), Herrería (blacksmiths), Pintorería (painters), Correría (harnessmaker)... denote the guild which exercised its trade there. On the first Saturday of each month there is a street market in which local tradespeople exhibit their produces.

Nearby, there are the surrounding areas of the palaces such as Bendaña, the Casa del Cordón, post inns like the Portalón and the lively squares of Brullería, Campillo and Matxete. The latter, now open to Vitoria's Ensanche, is a relaxing area that takes its name from the oath taken by the Procurator General, formerly performed over a machete with which his head would supposedly be cut off if he failed to do his duty.

If you are interested in contemporary art you will find the Artium, the Basque Museum-Centre of Contemporary Art nearby. It is a cultural activity centre near the Almendra Medieval Old Quarter that collects, produces, disseminates and researches contemporary art. In addition to its unique architecture, it has a large collection of works.

V I T O R I a - G a S T E I Z

M u R a L I N T H E a L M E N d R a M E d I E Va L

a R T I u M

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the Plaza de la Virgen Blanca is the heart of Vitoria-Gasteiz. The Celedón, protagonist of the fiestas, arrives here every 4th of August,

dropping down from the Tower of San Miguel. To one side is the Plaza de España, seat of the Casa Consistorial (Council Hall), which provides a popular area of terraces and columned porches.

The main area of the city, the Dato Street, starts in this square, a pedestrian area and financial centre watched over by the figure of “El Caminante” (The Walker). From here you can explore the most relevant parts of the Ensanche, now renovated with sculptural constructions such as the Plaza de los Fueros, by Eduardo Chillida.

Close by, you can also see the 19th century New Cathedral, the Basque Parliament, next to the La Florida park, the French Basque-style Post Office and the

AN Ensanchethat unites centuries

P L a Z a d E L a V I R G E N B L a N C a

P L a Z a d E E S Pa Ñ a

Palace of the Autonomous Provincial Council. With the aid of the Tourist Office, located in the Plaza de España, you can take guided walks to learn about the past and present of the city: the era of Carlos V, the

art of the altarpieces, the neoclassicism of Olaguibel and the milestones of the contemporary city.

Now is the time to do some shopping: you are in the right place.

www.vitoria-gasteiz.org/turismo

The Camino de Santiago runs through the heart of Vitoria-Gasteiz. From the Estíbaliz Sanctuary, through the Casco Viejo and the San Pedro Church, to the Armentia Basilica, modern pilgrims can get to know the medieval village. The streets and squares are signposted to show the way.

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vitoria-Gasteiz is very close to the Rioja Alavesa, an area with twelve thousand hectares of vineyard. Visting a winery is

a fascinating experience. You can see avant garde examples by architects like Gehry, Mazieres, Aspiazu, or Calatrava... or traditional ones that we call “cuevas” (caves).

Before visiting the Rioja Alavesa, spend some time in a wine shop in Vitoria-Gasteiz to become familiar with the wines. Don't miss the opportunity to take part in a tasting if you can.

Wine is an integral part of the life and culture of the area. The txikiteo is the custom of visiting various bars, as a group of friends and having some wines. Accompany the liquid with a pintxo! The Tourist Office will provide you with a "pintxo card" at reduced price that allows you to have a pintxo and wine from the Rioja Alavesa at five bars.

And if your visit coincides with the Week of the Pintxo and the Cazuelita (stew) or the Gourmet Wine Week, you will have hit the jackpot.

A sweet temptation

Bakery is another specialty of the capital with decades of tradition. Succumb to the goxua (layered cream cake), txutxitos (puff cakes), “Gasteiz tart”, chocolate truffles or vasquitos and neskitas (bonbons).

if you are accompanied by children on your trip to Vitoria-Gasteiz relax, because they will not be bored. There is an abundant of

leisure activities.

One option is to visit the Green Belt, with its parks, forests, wetlands, a variety of flora and fauna and the Ataria bird observatory en Salburua, all just a few kilometres from the city centre. You can get there by bicycle or on foot.

Now in the city, the Natural Science Museum displays a priceless collection of amber and one of the most complete herbariums in Spain.

And if you are here in June, the International Festival of Games in Vitoria-Gasteiz is unique in the world for its size and volume. 4,000 different games in the open spaces that occupy much of the city.

The heat of summer is very bearable in Vitoria-Gasteiz, and even more so at the AquaMendi water park at the Mendizorrotza municipal swimming pool. The Gamarra Park also has swimming pools, green zones and sports facilities.

VITORIA-GASTEIZwith kids

V I T O R I A - G A S T E I Z

P L a Z a d E L a V I R G E N B L a N C a

V I N E ya R d I N L a G u a R d I a

Vineyards on your doorstep

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From Vitoria-Gasteiz 2+days

After your stay in the Basque capital, you will probably have fallen in love with the lifestyle of this “Green Capital". But there is also much to in the surrounding areas of Vitoria-Gasteiz.

The Rioja Alavesa is an attractive area in southern Álava. Only 52 km from Vitoria-Gasteiz, the landscape is covered by vineyards, wineries and villages. That's because wine is the driving force of the economy in these parts, producing Crianza and Reserva wines that win awards from all over the world. Rioja was promoted from Designation of Origin (DO) to Qualified Designation of Origin (DOCa) in 1991. A convenient way to explore the region is on board the Enobús, a wine tour bus service that departs from the capital of Alava. It takes you to visit a variety of wineries from traditional stone constructions to the latest design in titanium.

You will also stroll through medieval walled villages like Labraza, Salinillas and Laguardia. In addition to the culture of wine, this region situated on the Ebro River offers relaxing spas and wine therapy centres, cycling trails and natural attractions of the Cantabria Mountain Range and the Laguardia Lagoons.

If you want to have a good time with the children, Valle Salado de Salinas de Añana offers you an active plan. Take your family to witness the process of salt extraction from the saline springs. There are paths alongside the hundreds of wooden troughs that distribute the salt water from the springs over the more than 120,000 square metres of the saltern. The visit includes the open-air Spa Salino. You can bathe your hands and feet in the hyper-salty waters.

L a B R a Z aL a G u a R d I a

S a L I N a S d E a Ñ a N a

S a M a N I E G O

...if you are staying two more days

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2+days

7days

u L L I B a R R I G a N B O a

q u E j a N a

G O R B E I a N aT u R a L Pa R K

I Z K I

S a N C T u a Ry O F E S T I B a L I Z

If you are in Vitoria-Gasteiz for a week, head to Ayala and Montaña Alavesa for some more sight-seeing.

Llodio is home to the Basque Museum of Gastronomy. Its neighbour Amurrio is the birthplace of Txakoli de Araba with various wineries producing this variety. The medieval town of Artziniega has spectacular green landscapes, and Quejana, a monumental construction containing a monastery and the Ayala Palace, is located nearby.

Not far away, close to Delika, you can visit the nearby "El Mirador del Nervión" (Nervion Lookout) where, suspended over the huge mountain basin you will discover the source of the Nervión. During periods of rain and snow there is a spectacular waterfall that plunges 270 meters over the Delika gorge to the depths of the Orduna Valley. It is reached by crossing the Orduna Pass in the Monte Santiago Nature Reserve (Burgos). The Gorbea Natural Park in Murgia, the Legutiano reservoirs and Ullibarri Ganboa, the romanesque Sanctuary of Estibaliz and the historic quarter of Salvatierra-Agurain are places to be enjoyed by young and old alike.

We recommend visiting Montaña Alavesa. Go up the Opakua pass from Salvatierra-Agurain until you reach the Valley of Arana, with its large Idiazabal Cheese factories, in San Vicente. Korres is the gateway to the Izki Natural Park, one of the best preserved forest areas on the Peninsula.

There's lots to choose from, from golf in Urturi and Lagrán, the equestrian centre and mountain biking in Antoñana, and the trout-fishing lake in Santa Cruz de Campezo. Finish your journey by visiting the museum in Urizaharra-Peñacerrada.

... and if you have a week

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V I T O R I a - G a S T E I ZT H E B A S Q U E C O U N T R Y C I T Y B R E A K G E TA W A Y S

experiences

THE BASQUE COUNTRY

www.euskadi.net

119 km

Vitoria-Gasteiz

Bilbao

66 km

San Sebastián

118 km

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for all tastesexperiences

THE BASQUE COUNTRY

a t this point you will know what the Basque Country has to offer. Bilbao, avant-

garde design and an admirable capacity for transformation. San Sebastián, an elegant beauty with unrivalled gastronomic delights. Vitoria-Gasteiz, a European Green Capital with an Almendra Medieval Old Quarter.

But this is only a small portion of what's on offer. The fact is that the Basque Country, keeps some big surprises in store for you in a variety of ways.

Food and wine tourism is one of them, because even though you know that it is recognised around the world, it is only through experience that you can appreciate the reason for its fame.

You will discover why the coast gives meaning to the existence of this people.

If you love nature, you can enjoy it in a thousand varied ways: trekking, climbing, surfing, mountain-biking...

And if traditions and getting to know the cultural wealth of a region's people is your thing, the Basque Country keeps alive an ancient past that gives it its identity.

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G a S t r O N O M y

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It may just be that one of the reasons you are visiting the

Basque Country is the cuisine... Through each house, gastronomy

club, bar or restaurant, Gastronomy and Cuisine are

written in capital letters

enjoy the

dining delights of theBasque Country

You can go home from the Basque Country not only having tasted these delights in the form of pintxos or in a fine restaurant, but having learned to make them.To do so, we would suggest taking one of the many culinary innovation courses.They will allow you to enjoy an unforgettable meal in a restaurant with Michelin stars.


Your introduction to gourmet

cooking

In the Basque Country there is an artist behind

every dish

T H E B A S Q U E C O U N T R Y

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when you meet the great figures of Basque cuisine, you will find that they have earned their

reputation the hard way. Many stand out on their own and receive the acclaim of gourmet critics. Their 26 Michelin stars prove it (april 2013). Each award for Basque cuisine follows hard on the heels of another. Along with Paris, San Sebastian is the only European city that has 3 restaurants with 3 Michelin stars!

You will find that every small restaurant offers an attractive and impressive menu. The grill houses (erretegiak) propose menus based on charcoal-grilled fish or meat. Some outstanding establishments are located in Getaria, Orio, Tolosa, Sukarrieta, Larrabetzu or Armentia.

The cider houses (sagardotegiak) offer the same with the added attraction of the picturesque setting among barrels or kupelas. The wineries of the Rioja Alavesa offer another fine manner of dining.

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the Basque Country has created a new way of dining: pintxos. They began as unassuming Gildas made with chilli pepper

and anchovy and as Péles, or boiled eggs. The idea was to eat something between glasses of wine... Now the tiny snacks in bars are made with great care by their creators. This is the sophisticated science of nanogastronomy.You will not be able to resist them: fish pudding from the Plaza de la Constitución in San Sebastián, or a sophisticated bite of roast pork marinated in spiced oil at the

PINTXOS

Guggenheim Bilbao, or a curl of scrambled eggs with perretxikos wild mushrooms from Calle Prado in Vitoria-Gasteiz. You will discover the delicious world of the pintxo in the Basque Country…!

In Vitoria-Gasteiz and San Sebastián you can get the "pintxo card" and guides will help you to discover this new culinary expression.

NaNOGaSTRONOMy

Beginners course in pintxos


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www.vitoria-gasteiz.org www.bilbao.netwww.donostia.orgwww.sansebastianturismo.com www.basquecountrytourism.netwww.campeonatodepintxos.comwww.ondoloinapartments.wordpress.comwww.pintxosdebilbao-patricia.blogspot.com

If tasting them is fantastic, learning to

make them is absolutely thrilling.

We suggest that you attend any of the

introductory courses to pintxos or their

association with the best wines under

the guidance of experts and creative

cooks.


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SPRING

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You will love to get to know the municipal and produce markets where professional chefs and housewives alike buy their top quality products. And best of all, they add special attraction: a unique opportunity to engage in a lively discussion about one product or another.


in San Sebastián La Bretxa, El Antiguo and San Martín are outstanding. In Ordizia –on Wednesdays– the benchmark prices for the rest of

the territory are set and, in Tolosa, Saturday is the ideal day to do the week's shopping.

La Ribera, in Bilbao, is the biggest municipal produce market and the most extensive covered market in Europe. Gernika-Lumo welcomes you on the first day of the week throughout the year and on the first and last Monday of October. You can also buy seasonal produce on Saturdays during the winter.

In Vitoria-Gasteiz, every Saturday the Plaza de Abastos de Santa Barbara is a colourful scene of visiting producers and farmers of the region who sell a selection of vegetables, fruits and cheeses outside.

Seasonal fairs

Extraordinary markets are organi-sed throughout the year, like those of Saint Thomas, in the three Basque capitals, the Livestock Fair in Agurain, the Potato Fair at Valdegovía-Gaubea, the Santiago Fair in Vitoria-Gasteiz, the Day of the Pepper from Gernika, the Farmer's Market in Bal-maseda and the Grape Harvest Festival in the Rioja Alavesa.

Cider, cheese, tuna, anchovies and mackerel, as well as txakoli sparkling wines, are sold in Astigarraga, Ordizia, Orio, Hondarribia and Zarautz. Basques like to buy seasonal products: Idiazabal Cheese, summer vegetables and fruit, autumn mushrooms and white beans for the winter.

www.gipuzkoa.net www.bilbao.netwww.gernika-lumo.netwww.mercadolaplaza.comwww.nekanet.netwww.gastronomiavasca.euwww.biolur.netwww.ordiziakoazoka.com

O R d I Z I a M a R K E T

Market days

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marketsthe

SUMMER

at whatever time of year you visit to the Basque Country, you will observe an authentic seasonal produce.

The Basque spring is the time for curds, or mamiak, of the first peas and broad beans, anchovies and mackerel. The new cider is also at the ideal stage for drinking. Beef and mutton -especially the lamb- offer a tempting reason for a fiesta or banquet. Don't miss it.

Summer has the air of the sea: skipjack tuna, sardines from Biscay, txipirones (baby squid) from San Sebastián and Mutriku, red mullet, txitxarros (horse mackerel), txangurros (crab), sea bass, monkfish... You will enjoy the restaurants in ports and coastal towns! The same goes for meat: go to a grill house and check it out.

Basque market gardeners also join the summer party: red and green peppers, meaty tomatoes, spicy Tolosa peppers, green beans and superb lettuce...

season

Autumn is the time for kidney beans (babarrunak), truffle and potatoes from Alava. The hunting season adds pigeons, partridges, woodcock and wild boar to the table. And pay attention to the delicious mushrooms and other fungi that reach the kitchen -zizahoris (Edulis amanita), onttobeltzas (Boletus aereus) and onttozuris (Amanita caesarea)– and also chestnuts, walnuts and caserío apples. It's vintage time.

Perhaps the best time to show off Basque cuisine is the winter. Edible thistles, beans, cauliflowers and leeks come from the gardens... Meat, bacon and black pudding from the fields and barns. The sea provides exquisite bream, and elvers...

SPRING

AUTUMN

g a s t r o n o m y

A dish for every

A gourmet goes shopping...You will want it all: duck foie gras, salt flower from Añana, cod from the northern seas or extra virgin oil from the Rioja Alavesa.

The products offered by the Basque delicatessen is endless: suggestive txistorras (pork sausage) local vegetables, tasty preserves, the delicious Peppers from Gernika, perretxikos wild mushrooms from Araba/Álava, skipjack tuna from Lekeitio, truffles from Santa Cruz de Campezo, Crianza and Reserva wines from the Rioja Alavesa, txakoli or Fish preserves from Bermeo.

Sweets such as cocotes of Markina (tarts), cigarrillos and tejas (almond waffles) of Tolosa, txutxitos (puff cakes) or the goxua (layered cream

cake) from Vitoria-Gasteiz, ignacios (tarts

filled with cream of almonds) of Azpeitia or the pantxineta (custard slice) of San Sebastián are all

typical dishes to be found in

the markets.

WINTER

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Gastronomic contests and Cuisine is present in every

expression of Basque life in the form of well attended celebrations, gastronomic contests or culinary exhibitions

on squares, in gastronomy clubs, shopping centres, on saints' days or popular pilgrimages, hundreds of cooking fans get

involved in the most varied culinary contests that take place all over the Basque Country. Their proposals embrace the usual culinary fields: bean stews, paellas, putxeras (stew), potatoes, snails, tortillas, cod and marmitako (fish and potato stew). Entire families and groups of friends take part.

If you take a stroll beside the La Concha Beach in summer you will see housewives, young cooking fans willing to learn and professional chefs from the bars and taverns taking part in a “tortilla de patatas" (Spanish omelette) contest.

The competition in Bilbao's Arenal during the Aste Nagusia (August fiestas) focuses on casseroles, on the best paella in the meadows of Aixerrota de Algorta, stews in the Rioja Alavesa and rabbit goulash in Laudio-Llodio. But undoubtedly the marmitako is the favourite dish for culinary championships along the Basque Coast.

At a higher level, there are numerous Basque gastronomy clubs competing in regional competitions. The rivalries are fierce, but it's the fun that counts.

G R a P E H a R V E S T F E S T I Va L

In Balmaseda, given its mining tradition, they still make the famous putxeras the traditional way: kidney beans, vegetables, ribs and chorizo. You too can take part.

Whether for amateurs or professionals, culinary contests cover the entire calendar

And if you really want to learn to cook, the San Sebastián Gastronomika and the European Week of Cuisine contests held at the Zaldiaran Restaurant in Vitoria-Gasteiz bring together the best chefs and food critics every year. And that's not all: events like Algusto, Saber y Sabor in Bilbao, the CineGourland Festival in Getxo, the Championship of Pintxos 'Euskadi Saboréala' in Hondarribia, the Week of the Pintxo and the Cazuelita (stew) in Vitoria-Gasteiz will give you new ideas and appetising moments.

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fiestas

in the Basque Country cooking has attained the rank of a science, and the University has even devoted a faculty to it with the recently opened Basque Culinary Center. Several interpretation centres and gastronomic museums such as

the Basque Museum of Gastronomy in Laudio-Llodio operate in the Basque Country, where you can investigate the various domestic and professional culinary fields, cuisine from different eras and machines to aid food preparation, as well as an extensive culinary bibliography.

In Tolosa the Gorrotxategi Museum of Cakes and Pastries exhibits the working techniques of confectioners from the 14th to the 19th centuries. The Honey Museum in Murgia has a collection of production techniques from the Gorbeia district.

El Rincón del Pan (Bread Museum) shows the milling and baking tradition of the Urola district. In Ordizia you will find the D'elikatuz Food and Gastronomy Interpretation Centre, and the Idiazabal Cheese Interpretation Centre, located in nearby Idiazabal, explains the secrets of the designation of origin and offers tasting.

Wine science

Wine and cider also have their school. The "Villa Lucía" Wine Centre in Laguardia will show you how wine is made and includes virtual tastings and games. Another nearby museum is that of the Bodegas Valdelana winery of Elciego, which has a cellar dating from 1583 and a Wine Museum endowed with wine-making exhibits from the neolithic to last century.

The town of Astigarraga is home to the Sagardoetxea Apple and Cider Interpretation Centre. An attractive museum area offers the latest technologies with computer panels, interactive material, photos and games.

www.euskolabel.netwww.basquecountrytourism.netwww.sagardoetxea.comwww.gipuzkoakomuseoak.netwww. bculinary.com

Cooking at the Basque Culinary Center

Museums, interpretation centres and the university

Pintxo routeYou can do a guided pintxo tour to try these miniature delights in all of the three Basque capitals.

Main course: PutxeraIn Balmaseda, as a reminiscence of the Robla train that connected Bilbao to La Robla (Leon), they continue to make the famous putxera (railway stew) in the traditional way: beans, vegetables, spare ribs and chorizo. Go ahead and take part.

And now dessertVitoria-Gasteiz offers the option of a guided tour of bakeries and pastry shops. Can you think of a sweeter walk?



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within its area, Rioja Alavesa combines a

range of attractions that will enable you to learn all about grapes, vineyards and wineries.

The fame of Rioja Alavesa wines has a long history. Membership of the Rioja Qualified Designation of Origin is an expression of the high quality you'll find in both small and huge wineries. Tourist Offices in Laguardia, Labastida and Elciego will suggest travel plans suited to the time you have available. One option is to visit villages, vineyards and wineries enjoying the culture of wine. You may want to explore the area on a relaxing bicyle tour. There are also wine-related spas and numerous renowned restaurants throughout the region...

The tranquility of the vineyards

Devotion to good food has given rise to wine tourism in the Basque Country, and new resources and proposals are added every day. If you are looking for a fun-filled getaway to mix your love of cooking with landscapes and a variety of activities: This is your trip!

A VOYAGE ThROUGh ThE WORLD of wine

RIOJAA L A V E S A

E L C I E G O


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Visit a traditional winery...In your visit to the Rioja Alavesa you will learn to appreciate both the small family winery with its long history and inexplicable underground cellars, hidden under a street or in the foundations of some home, and the spectacular design that modern architects create for the great wineries. Wine-related architecture is impressive.

...or the most avant gardeYou will marvel at the Santiago Calatrava-designed Ysios winery at Laguardia with its outstanding undulating roof against the backdrop of the Cantabria Mountain Range. Iñaki Azpiazu is the architecture of the Bodegas Baigorri winery in Samaniego. The French architect Philippe Mazières designed Villa Real in Laguardia. Both the Campillo winery in

Laguardia and Faustino in Oion constitute landmarks on your trip to the Rioja Alavesa, and the Gehry-designed titanium facility at the Bodega Vinos de los herederos del Marques de Riscal winery in Elciego is a delight to the eye. In a few moments you will pass 19th century underground cellars to the cutting edge of wine-related architecture.

But to explore the Rioja Alavesa in the most relaxing way we suggest you forget your car and use the Enobús (Wine Bus) that departs from Bilbao or Vitoria-Gasteiz and takes you on a guided tour to every corner of this fascinating region.


V I N T a G E

www.cuadrillariojaalavesa.com www.riojalavesa.comwww.olivo-adora.orgwww.alavaturismo.com www.rutadelvinoderiojaalavesa.com

The Rioja Alavesa, located between the left bank of the Ebro River and the Cantabria Mountain Range, possesses a rich historical and cultural footprint. Megalithic remains such as Chabola de la Hechicera, los Llanos, and El Sotillo…

Vineyards, olive groves, dolmens, outstanding architecture, necropolises, wineries, cave wine presses, chapels, bridges, trails and cellars are all found in this area. All this will contribute to making your journey both intense and relaxing.

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T X a K O L I

TXAKOLI With three different designations

of origin –Getaria, Bizkaia and Araba

– txakoli is in demand on the

sophisticated and innovative

international wine market. The

taste is different from anything

else you will have experienced.

the warm, humid air from the Bay of Biscay drove the cultivation of attractive vineyards for production of the txakoli

sparkling wine, next to the hundreds of caseríos along the coasts of Gipuzkoa and Biscay. Commendable progress in growth and quality of this wine began with inclusion in the designations of origin twenty years ago.

With the breeze from the Cantabrian Sea

The districts of Getaria, Zarautz and Bakio (on the coast) and Amurrio, Orduña and Goierri (inland), have entertaining routes that combine culture with gastronomy and wine tasting.

a wine thatignores borders


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The taste of txakoliYou can visit one of the wineries that produces this local delicacy, do a nighttime tasting perhaps, to discover the secrets of this unique wine.While you are here, you can also discover coastal and inland villages full of character and tradition. Along your way, you'll see vineyards of the grape that goes on to work its magic and become txakoli.When they teach you how best to accompany the wine with other local products such as Idiazabal Cheese, Anchovies from Bermeo or Peppers from Gernika, you'll start to feel like a true sommelier.

And remember that txakoli from the Basque Country boasts 3 designations of origin:

• for Álava (Aiara-Ayala and Alto Nervión) 'Arabako txakolina' www.txakolidealava.com

• for Getaria (Aia, Orio, Zarautz, Olaberri and Getaria) Getariako txakolina' www.getariakotxakolina.com

• for Biscay (Bakio and Gernika-Lumo) 'Bizkaiko txakolina'www.bizkaikotxakolina.org

If you would like to experience a winery tour: www.basquecountrytourism.net

G E T a R I a

A robust menuCider from the kupela (barrel), cod or pepper omelette, a magnificent T-bone ox steak, cheese, nuts and quince jelly... that's what any Basque cider house will place before you!

The cider season starts on the Feast of San Sebastián in January and ends in May, but virtually all establishments keep their doors open throughout the year. In many of them spontaneous otxotes, or choruses, are recited. Sometimes entertaining bertsolaris contests are organised, in which improvised verses are composed on the spot.

Dining in a cider house


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the link between the sea and the Basque Country is nothing new.The Cantabrian Sea has always played an essential role in the

landscape, economy and life of the people close to it, giving rise to customs still rooted in the maritime tradition. When you visit places with economies closely linked to the sea you will be better placed to understand something of the nature of the people and their ancient culture.

The soul of the fisher

This maritime spirit has its origins in the whaling. Thus fishing offered a stable and worthy way of life: the men going down to the sea to fish, and the women mending the nets or selling the catch. Even today in many ports you can see how they keep to the same roles. The need to protect their

interests led the sailors to unite in guilds, an arrangement that still survives. You can visit the guilds of Hondarribia or the Etxetxu of the Puerto Viejo de Algorta today.

The need for protection from the ferocity of the Cantabrian Sea had something to do with the religious leanings of the sailors. This devotion is reflected in the numerous patron saint festivals, such as the “cármenes”, “madalenas” or “san pedros” (festivals consecrated to Our Lady of Carmen, Mary Magdalene and St Pedro respectively) taking place in many coastal towns. The churches they built also bear witness to this devotion: the Sanctuary of the Virgen de Guadalupe in Hondarribia, Santa Catalina in Mundaka and San Telmo in Zumaia are good examples.

Culture forged

BY THE FORCE OF THE Sea

The sea plays a leading role in the Basque Country. Not only because it sculpts the varied landscape where gentle beaches meet towering cliffs, but also due to the wealth it provides for the towns and cities bathed by its waters. To understand it is to understand the history, culture and traditions of the Basque people

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T H E B a S q u E C O a S T

ignacio Zuloaga Cultural Space, in ZumaiaIn Zuloaga's house, located in the dunes of Zumaia verging on the Camino de Santiago, you will find works by the painter born in Eibar in addition to others including El Greco and Goya.

www.espaciozuloaga.com

Casa Víctor hugo, in Pasai DonibaneThe house where Victor hugo wrote about the people of Pasaia is now a museum where you can see writings and drawings of the period when the artist lived in this seventeenth century building.

www.victorhugopasaia.net

The houses of the masters

To comprehend the legacy of this maritime culture and explore its heritage, so you can better understand the relationship of the Basque people with the sea, we recommend visiting the many museums scattered along the coast. You could start with the San Sebastián Aquarium, a pioneering institution in maritime studies. You will love the Oceanarium, with its transparent tunnel giving 360º views of the marine world. Also in San

Sebastián you can see the Naval Museum, with dedicated exhibitions chosen for their historical and cultural relevance. The Oiasso Roman Museum in Irún takes its name from the city built here by the romans, and displays daily life in ancient times.

If you would like to see a working shipbuilder's shop, a coastal carpentry from the old days, the Ondartxo Maritime Cultural Centre restores seacraft by hand and exhibits a wide range of histori-cal vessels. The Bentalekua Museum, in Mutriku, conserves a wooden apparatus that was used to aid organisation of the Dutch auction for selling fish.

Explore the depths of the sea. They are full of treasure

In Biscay we have the Fisherman's Museum and "Aita Guria" Whaling Interpretation Centre in Bermeo. The Plasentia de Butrón Museum in Plentzia, tells the town's maritime history through navigational instruments and models. The Maritime Museum Ría of Bilbao, located in the old shipyards, shows vessels related to the port. The Rialia Industry Museum in Portugalete covers the history of mining and ironworks in Biscay. The Navigation Technology Interpretation Centre in Lekeitio explores the world of lighthouses and navigational techniques. The Sea Interpretation Centre in Santurtzi documents port life at the beginning of last century.

M aT X I T X a K O L I G H T H O u S E

G E Ta R I a

Considered the most influential designer of the twentieth century, his hometown of Getaria pays tribute to the great tailor and visionary at the Cristobal Balenciaga Museum.Not only can you visit the museum as a TOP experience but you can also learn the secrets and techniques and, in the workshop under the guidance of profes-sional experts, even make an article of clothing of your own.

www.basquecountrytourism.netwww.cristobalbalenciagamuseoa.com

Apropos of Balenciaga


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EXPE RIENCE

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BASquEBEACHES

L a G a B E a C H

favoured by queens, painters and poets

The Basque Coast stretches through 250 kilometres of natural wonders in the form of beaches, estuaries, cliffs and spectacular geological structures

the seaside tradition of the Bay of Biscay between Getxo and Biarritz has a long history. In 1887 Queen Maria Cristina ordered the erection

of the wooden Royal Huts to preserve her modesty on the beach of her favourite city, San Sebastián. It could be said that the area became the tourist destination par excellence when royalty, aristocracy and the European bourgeoisie chose this stretch of coastline for their holidays.

All the beaches guarantee the quality of their waters and services with certifications renewed year after year.

The Basque Country has 21

accessible beaches

There are urban beaches ideal for families amongst which La Concha, in San Sebastián, Astondo in Gorliz and Isuntza, in Leketitio stand out.

The best for a young, fun-loving atmosphere are Zurriola Beach in San Sebastián, or the beaches of Gorliz and Plentzia in Biscay. The surfboard and sea kayak are most at home at Zarautz, Bakio or Laidatxu, the latter in Mundaka.

Laida in Ibarrangelua is a very special beach. Its charm derives from the beauty of the natural setting where it is located, in the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, one of the Basque Country's most important natural treasures.

Another jaw-dropping beach is Itzurun in Zumaia, and it can also teach you the geological history of the Basque Coast.

And if you need an accessible place, Ereaga, Arrigunaga (Getxo), Laga, Karraspio and Toña (Sukarrieta), in Biscay or La Con-cha, Zarautz and Ondarbeltz, in Gipuzkoa are a few.

46

i

M u N d a K a

Z a R a u T Z

And finally, if you are into naturism, the Basque Country has a wide variety of small coves and several beaches where you can wonder freely. Lapatxa in Ea, Ba-rrika, Ulia and Igueldo in San Sebastián are wonderful bays. If you prefer beaches, try Zurriola in San Sebastián, Zarautz, or Satu-rraran in Mutriku. In Biscay Meñakoz, in Barrika-Sopelana, Aizkorri, in Getxo, or Ba-rinatxe in Sopelana-Getxo are outstanding.

T H E B a S q u E C O a S T

t was at the end of the 50s when surf arrived on the Basque Coast, specifically to Biarritz. Slowly but surely the sport attracted followers, and today it is

a benchmark surfing area. If you are interested, you can choose from numerous active tourism companies that offer courses and classes to get started or for those who are already experts. From San Sebastián to Getxo, including Zarautz, Sopelana, Bakio and Mundaka, which has the best waves in Europe, love of surfing is reflected in the endless number of surfers from around the world who come here. The towering waves provided by the Cantabrian Sea (some ranked World Class) makes it possible to hold major championships such as those of San Sebastián, Zarautz and Sopelana, the latter two included in the European and world circuits and Punta Galea Big Challenge, Getxo (Big Wave Surf Championship).

www.surfingeuskadi.net


47

a must for your trip is a route along the coast taking in the flysch,

a stratified stone complex showing 60 million years of the history of our planet and which makes up the Basque Coast Geopark. As if it were the leaves of an open book, contemplating the flysch you will appreciate the evolution of the earth through the formation of the rocks in this area of the coastline. This enclave also stores other natural and cultural features of the region.

The rock layers that you will see have been uncovered due to continual wave action.

The Basque Coast Geopark has been a member of theEuropean Network of Geoparks recognised by UNESCO since 2010

You can access the enclave from the towns of Zumaia, Deba and Mutriku. For a better look there are various alternatives: boat trips, trekking the flysch, horseback routes and a visit to Algorri, the Natural Resources Interpretation Centre of Zumaia, that will enable you to explore this geological structure of the Basque Coast in an easy and entertaining way.

Other areas of geological interest are the petrified dunes of Astondo, in Gorliz and the stretch of cliffs beginning at Punta Galea in Getxo and taking in Sopelana, Barrika, Plentzia and Gorliz before ending at Armintza.

www.algorri.euwww.geoparkea.com

t i d a l p l a i n

BASquE COAST GEOPARk

48

Flysch & karst ExperienceThanks to the Nautilus Geological Interpretation Centre in Mutriku you can take a boat trip to see the cliffs from the sea. We then dock at Zumaia at the Algorri Natural Resources Interpretation Centre where you will be able to satisfy your curiosity about the rock formations.

On the high seasPlace yourself at the orders of an expert skipper who will teach you some of the secrets of sailing on the high seas as, with a bit of luck, you sight dolphins that greet you as they leap from the waves.


there is also something for bird-watchers. The Txingudi wetlands in Irún, Cabo Higuer in Hondarribia or the Aketxe Island in Bermeo are

some great natural observatories. The Urdaibai Bird Center in Gautegiz-Arteaga is a bird banding and study centre. In fact the Basque Country has a tourist product giving full information on bird watching:

www.birdingeuskadi.net

T H E B a S q u E C O a S TT H E B A S Q U E C O U N T R Y

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EXPE RIENCE

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a little paradise to be enjoyed

Mountains that rise from the sea and fall to form picturesque valleys and plains spread with vineyards... The Basque Country is revealed in all its glory as a landscape full of contrasts, bewitching and full of colour

THE NATuRAL BASquE COuNTRY

u R d a I B a I a N d G a Z T E L u G aT X E

a C t i V e N a t u r e

50

In the Aralar Natural Park you will find megalithic monuments, and in the Armañón Natural Park caves such as Pozalagua, unique for its eccentric stalactites, await you. In the Urkiola Natural Park you can visit the Sanctuary of San Antonio Abad and San Antonio de Padua,

rotected sites, natural parks and rich ecosystems comprise the

diverse scope in which nature shows herself in this small country.

This is the case of the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. This unique enclave, enables you to enjoy walks along the Laida and Laga Beaches, or to enjoy the views of the sea from the San Juan de Gaztelugatxe Chapel. You can also immerse yourself in trails to arrive at the Oma Forest, a truely enchanted place.

Here culture, heritage and nature combine to offer you a network of natural parks that spread throughout the territory.

Near Vitoria-Gasteiz you have the Gorbeia Natural Park, the traditional benchmark for Basque mountaineering. On both its Alava and Biscay faces you can enjoy wonders such as the Goiuru falls, or historical references like the Cross of Gorbea, which crowns the summit. If you prefer, you can visit the Sanctuary of Arantzazu or walk the mountain pass of the San Adrián Tunnel, in the Aizkorri-Aratz Natural Park, in the very heart of Gipuzkoa, where you can also visit the Arrikrutz Caves, 14 km of interconnected galleries which make it the largest cave system in the province.

a I Z K O R R I - a R aT Z

p

T X I N d O K I

a magical enclave with a popular legend about the stone at its entrance: anyone who turns it around three times will find their love.

Erosion of the limestone that abounds in the Basque Country shows the imprint of time in the Valderejo Natural Park. A natural route that will leave you speechless. Izki Natural Park is a beautiful little quiet spot, and before leaving the area, you should visit Peñacerrada and its amazing walled village.

In the foothills of the Pyrenees and only 10 kilometres from the Basque Coast, the Aiako Harria rise up. Their three main peaks, of great scenic beauty, are known as the Tres Coronas (Three Crowns). You can enjoy walks in the Pagoeta Natural Park, in Gipuzkoa, and in the Iturraran Botanic Gardens.

a C T I V E N aT u R E

Culture, heritage and nature come together in a network of natural parks spread throughout the territory


51

THE ACTIVE OuTDOORSby foot or bike

Taking the GR-38 trail you can witness an ancient heritage: the mule-driving tradition of the Wine and Fish Route. The route takes you from the Rioja Alavesa to Lekeitio, Bermeo and Ondarroa, on the Basque Coast.

This is a vivid example of the Cultural Landscape Legacy that defines Basque culture.

Likewise, by taking the GR-120 you can can follow the footsteps of San Ignatius of Loyola on the Route of the Three Temples, that includes the pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Loyola, the Santuary of Arantzazu and the Chapel of La Antigua, while you explore the interior of Gipuzkoa.

hikers and mountain enthusiasts have a perfect opportunity to enjoy walking in

the Basque Country. Seeing the Cultural Landscape Legacy of the Basque Country allows you, in a route of just 40 kilometres, to experience a wide variety of different landscapes: from ordered vineyards to unspoiled mountains, from the coast to the inland plains.

www.tierraignaciana.comwww.senderismoeuskadi.net

B E T W E E N O R I O a N d Z u M a I a

a R a N T Z a Z u

52

there are four BTT Centres (mountain bike centres) in Basque territory. Whether you choose the Basque Coast, the Urdaibai Biosphere

Reserve or the Mountains of Alava, climb on your bike and enjoy the beauty to be found along the routes.

O M a F O R E S T

I Z K I

The Basque Country has several Greenways, old railway lines converted into bicycle paths crossing landscapes.

There are hundreds of kilometres of routes, trails and tracks at your disposal for your favourite sport while you enjoy new scenery. Can you imagine anything better?

by foot or bike

www.btteuskadi.net

www.viasverdes.com

Greenways,growing by leaps and bounds

a C T I V E N aT u R ET H E B A S Q U E C O U N T R Y

53

when you go to the country you will see that the character and traditions of the Basque people remain unchanged. Thus you will love getting to know what life

is really like in these areas. There are numerous hotels and cottages where you will find its true history. Authenticity is the keynote of the Basque countryside.

But if you are interested in the activities of day-to-day life in the country you will be fascinated by a stay in a caserío (traditional Basque farmhouse), sharing a few days with a Basque family. This idea has the appeal of a direct contact with a nature that will stimulate your senses as you participate in everyday activities: cheese production, cider making, preparing meat, honey, jam, milking cows... in short, all kinds of activities that will immerse you in the reality of Basque rural life.

You will become familiar with their customs, enjoy the local cuisine especially related to the area you choose, learn words in the Basque language... you will be another member of the family. And if you are lucky your stay may coincide with one of the festivals, markets and popular celebrations that occur throughout the year in the surrounding area.

www.nekatur.net

In the Basque country more than anywhere else you notice the differences between the urban and rural environments.

The charm of therural world

Aizkorri, Txindoki and Gorbea are three of the Basque Country's hallmark peaks.

But another of the interesting activities you can take part in on your routes through the Basque mountains is learning to make cheese and sharing the ancestral culture of the shepherds.


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EXPE RIENCE

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a C T I V E N aT u R E

The Basque Country in original version

rural world

If you want to go beyond a mere visit to the Basque Country we recommend that you immerse yourself in the experience of a different life, living with a family in a caserío and discovering everything involved in the Basque countryside.You will take part in the daily tasks of the caserío alongside the baserritarras "farmers", in their love of quality natural products, their cultivation, life in the open air, unsurpassed landscapes, contact with local traditions... and feel the peace and quiet of the countryside.

Choose the agrotourism option that most appeals to you and give free rein to your baserriterra side.



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EXPE RIENCE

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history in every corner

you

They say that the origins of the Basque language, Euskera, is lost in the mists of time... This ancient language, like many of their traditions, is an essential part of the age-old Basque cultural heritage.

a R a N T Z a Z u

w hen you are p l a n n i n g your route remember

that this corner of the Cantabrian Sea was inhabited by various peoples such as the vascones and has an ancetral language, Euskera, the origin of which is still unknown. It was an indomitable people and fought against the romans, arabs and visigoths. It was part of the Kingdom of Navarre, conquered by Castile in the 16th century.

What remains today is the Autonomous Community of the Basque Country, which shares much of its culture with neighbouring Navarre.

If you have an interest in history you should begin your journey in the paleolithic caves at Ekain or Santimamiñe, or observe the flysch at the Basque Coast Geopark or visit the dolmens and cromlechs of the Aiako Harria, Mount Adarra, Aralar, Rioja Alavesa and Valdegovía.

F I N E a R T S ( B I L B a O )

When you travel the lands of Álava you will see the walled towns of Antoñana, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Peñacerrada, Laguardia and Labraza, which defended the interests of the Kingdom of Navarre. The towers and strongholds of Quejana in the Valley of Ayala, Mendoza and Villanañe will take you back to past ages... In the religious field, the Santa María Cathedral in Vitoria-Gasteiz, which is undergoing restoration, is definitely worth a visit.

SaNTa MaRÍa dE LOS REyES (LaGuaRdIa)

C u l t u r e

will discover

56

in Biscay, the cultural heritage is generous. You could start with the island city of Orduña, the Haizko megalithic itinerary, the Casa de

Juntas (Assembly House) of Gernika-Lumo and, in Avellaneda, the docks and metalwork museums on the left bank of the Nervion. Don't forget the Guggenheim Museum, the Museum of Archeology and the Bellas Artes Museum in Bilbao, the Zenarrutza Monastery, the Chapel of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe or the Vizcaya Bridge in Portugalete.

In Gipuzkoa, you can follow roman footsteps in the mines of Arditurri or the old port of Irun. If you are an art lover -or religious- the Basilicas of San Ignatius de Loyola and Santa Maria del Coro will attract your attention, as will the modernist Sanctuary of Arantzazu in Oñati, where the University is another must.

The San Telmo Museum in San Sebastián offers you an ethnographic study of the territory. The City Council, Library and Plaza de la Constitución in San Sebastián teach you about the history of the capital of Gipuzkoa.

S a N T E L M O ( S a N S E B a S T I Á N )

u N I V E R S I T y ( O Ñ aT I )

C u LT u R E

Coastal stages: Hondarribia San Sebastián - Zarautz - Deba Markina/Xemein - Gernika-Lumo - Bilbao Balmaseda or Portugalete - Kobaron

Inland stages: Irún - Hernani Tolosa - Zerain - Salvatierra Vitoria-Gasteiz - La Puebla de Arganzón Salinillas de Buradón.

the Coastal Route, also known as the Northern Route, is one of the oldest routes and was used by pilgrims from the Nordic

Countries. From Hondarribia to Deba you will keep to the highroads overlooking the Cantabrian Sea on a delightful trail, experiencing the lively atmosphere of sea and fishing communities, not forgetting the ever-present farmhouses and their green pastures.

From Markina-Xemein the route becomes easier through the hinterland of Lea-Artibai and Busturialdea to reach the tranquility of Las Encartaciones.

The Inland Route, which joins the French Route, and allows you to explore territory with a variety of colours, forms and spaces... from the borders of Gipuzkoa and Álava. For the romans this route was the European freeway.

L a a R E N a ( M u S K I Z )

2the

routes to Santiago

Basque

www.basquecountrytourism.netwww.oriodonejakue.net

L O y O L a


57

if you have never visited the Basque Country before you will probably be curious about a lively dance that opens many celebrations:

the aurresku, a welcoming dance full of energy in which the dantzari (dancer) shows incredible flexibility. This is just one of the many examples of a rich heritage which, in addition to folklore. also includes legends, mythology, language, customs, traditions, rural sports, history, and all the expressions of art. Music has an idiosyncratic nature achieved by the use of traditional instruments such as the alboka (woodwind), the txistu (flute), the trikitixa (accordion) and the dultzaina (oboe).

Well

conserved traditions Basque MythologyLearn about Basque mythology, and the characters that fill the literature of a legendary country.

Your stroll will certainly be most entertaining if someone describes some of the characters in Basque mythology! Mari, a woman of fire who combs her hair in her cave before crossing the heavens; Lamiak, beautiful women with webbed feet who haunt the river banks; Basajaun, the lord of the forests with his brutal looks; Jentilak, the gentiles with their supernatural strength, and the Sorginak, witches with magic powers…


P E L O Ta Va S C a

C a S E R I O

A L B O K A

L a m i ab a s a j a u n

EXPE RIENCE

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58

a i z k o l a r i a k

Key Basque cultural events in the world of music, dance or theatre such as the Vitoria-Gasteiz and San Sebastián International Jazz Festivals know no borders.

In Getxo there are Folk, Blues and Jazz Festivals. The Basque Symphony Orchestra's Euskalduna opera season and the BBK Live Macro-Festival take place in Bilbao.

In San Sebastián you have Zinemaldi, the Film Festival, the Musical Fortnight, the Fantasy and Horror Film Week, the festivals of bertsolaris…

In Álava the Early Music Week, the Dantzan Maiatza Festival (dance), Magialdia (magic), the International Festival of Games, the Television and Radio Contest and the Azkena Rock Festival stand out...

For these reasons, whether you come with your family or with friends, your visit to the Basque Country can combine all the attractions this country has to offer in an endless succession of cultural ideas: music, sports, film and many more.

The Basque Countryon the world scene

INTERNATIONAL CONTESTS

Sport is also part of Basque traditions. and the pelota mano (handball), pala (bat) and cesta punta (basket tip) stadiums are always full. Bets are placed and the courts are a trilling spectacle.

Regattas of traineras (traditional fishing boats) and championships of aizkolaris (axes), tronzalaris (trunk sawing), harrijasotzailes (stone lifters) and idi-demak take place in many Basque localities.

T R a I N E R a S j a Z Z F E S T I Va L

C u LT u R E

b a s q u E d a n c I n g

The rural sport (herri kirolak) is a reflection of work in the countryside.


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Ten, a hundred, a thousand... there

are so many reasons that make

the Basque Country an incredible

destination. You will experience this

at first hand when you meet the

friendly hospitable people, learn its

history, customs and traditions and

admire the art and architecture of

the cities... Not to mention all the

delicious food that you will get to

taste.

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76

Michelin-starred restaurants

Traditional and avant garde wineries

In San Sebastián and along

La Conchain style

One of the most romantic strolls possible along the esplanade of La Concha Bay. San Sebastián has always set the style.

Inmerse yourself in the most avant garde art and architecture surroundings of the present day.

Bilbao, Guggenheim and much more

A genuinely unforgettable luxury that you will remember forever.

And you can taste an Alavan Rioja in any of

them. Txakoli is another interesting wine.

If you want to spend

a lovely evening you can share a

“txotx” in any Basque cider

house.

...we invite you to experience it all.

10The

60

3

8

to savour the Basque Country...

10

5

Traditional and avant garde wineries

Top class festivals A stroll through

Urdaibai

The beach, sun and waves

A gourmet purchase

To take home a memento of any of the high quality products made here.

Film, Jazz, Rock, Folk, ancient or classical music, magic... a cultural offer that will delight you.

Recognised as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, it will bring you closer to nature.

9 The Old Cathedral of

Vitoria-Gasteiz, open for restoration

4

Urban, natural, elegant, rough or calm, here you can choose the kind of beach that suits you for sunbathing or surfing.

4A pintxo route

Enjoy a meal while you share conversation and laughter.

Explore one of the most surprising restoration processes in history.

uNMISSaBLE EXPERIENCES

unmissable experiences


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62

PRaC

TICa

L In

FoRM

aTIo

n EUSKADI TOURISM www.basquecountrytourism.netTOURISM ALAVA www.alavaturismo.comTOURISM BIZKAIAwww.mybilbaobizkaia.netTOURISM GIPUZKOAwww.gipuzkoaturismo.net

NEKATUR/AGROTOURISM902 130 031 · www.nekatur.net

Tourist Offices

ÁlavaAMURRIO 945 393 704 · www.amurrio.orgARTZINIEGA 945 396 156 · www.aiaraldea.orgELCIEGO 945 606 632 · www.elciego.esLABASTIDA 945 331 015 · www.labastida-bastida.orgLAGUARDIA 945 600 845 · www.laguardia-alava.com

LLODIO AYALA VALLEY AND ALTO NERVIÓN 944 034 930 · www.aiaratur.org

MURGUIA THE ZUIA GROUP945 430 440 / 945 430 133 · www.cuadrillazuia.comQUEJANA 945 399 414 · www.aiaraldea.orgSANTA CRUZ DE CAMPEZO THE CAMPEZO-MONTAÑA ALAVESA GROUP945 405 424 · www.montanaalavesa.comSALVATIERRA-AGURAIN945 302 931 · www.cuadrillasalvatierra.orgVILLANUEVA DE VALDEGOVIA 945 353 040 · www.valdegovia.comVITORIA-GASTEIZ 945 161 598 · www.vitoria-gasteiz.org

BizkaiaARENA (MUSKIZ)946 706 567 · www.enkartur.netBAKIO946 193 395 · www.bakio.orgBEC (Bilbao Exhibition Centre) 944 240 237 · www.bilbaoexhibitioncentre.comBERMEO 946 179 154 · www.bermeokoudala.net

BILBAO TOURISM 944 795 760 · www.bilbao.net/bilbaoturismo

BILBAO (AIRPORT)944 031 444 · www.euskaditurismo.netBILBAO, GUGGENHEIM 944 795 760 · www.bilbao.net

BILBAO, ARRIAGA THEATRE 944 795 760 · www.bilbao.net/bilbaoturismoDURANGO946 033 938 · www.durango-udala.netELORRIO946 820 164 · www.elorrio.netENCARTACIONES ENKARTUR946 802 976 · www.enkartur.netGAZTELUGATXE 946 179 154 / 606 358 831 · www.bermeokoudala.netGERNIKA-LUMO 946 255 892 · www.gernika-lumo.netGETXO 944 910 800 · www.getxo.net/turismoGORBEIALDEA944 046 097 · www.gorbeialdea.comGORDEXOLA946 799 715 · www.gordexola.netGORLIZ 946 774 348 · www.gorliz.netKARRANTZA946 806 928 · www.karrantza.org


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PRaCTICaL INFORMaTION

LEKEITIO 946 844 017 · www.lekeitio.com

MENDATA 946 257 402 · www.mendata.es

MUNDAKA 946 177 201 · www.mundaka.org

MUSKIZ946 802 976 · www.enkartur.net

ONDARROA 946 831 951 · www.ondarroa.eu

ORDUÑA 945 384 384 · www.ordunaturismo.com

OROZKO 946 339 823 · www.orozkoudala.com

PLENTZIA 946 774 199 · www.plentzia.org

PORTUGALETE944 729 314 · www.portugalete.com

SANTURTZI944 839 494 · turismo.santurtzi.org

SOPELANA 944 065 519 · www.sopelana.net

TRUCIOS-TURTZIOZ946 109 604 · www.turtzioz.org

URDAIBAI-BUSTURIALDEA946 257 609 · 628 007 725 www.busturialdeaurdaibai.com

ZIERBENA946 404 974 · www.zierbena.net

GipuzkoaARANTZAZU943 796 463 · www.turismodebagoiena.com

ATAUN943 180 335 · www.ataunturismoa.net

BERGARA943 779 128 · www.bergara.es

DEBA 943 192 452 · www.deba.net

ESKORIATZA. IBARRAUNDI MUSEUM943 715 453 · www.eskoriatza.net

GETARIA 943 140 957 · www.getaria.net

HONDARRIBIA BIDASOA ACTIVA. DPMT. OF TOURISM 943 645 458 · www.bidasoaturismo.com

HONDARRIBIA 943 643 677 · www.hondarribiaturismo.com

HONDARRIBIA (AIRPORT)943 668 518

IDIAZABAL943 188 203 · www.idiazabalgaztarenmuseoa.com

IRÚN 943 020 732 · www.irun.org

LEGAZPI COMARCA UROLA GARAIA (LENBUR) 943 730 428 · www.lenbur.com

LEINTZ GATZAGA665 739 550 · www.leintzgatzaga.com

LIZARRUSTI (PARKETXEA)943 582 069 · www.lizarrusti.com

LOYOLA943 151 878 · www.tierraignaciana.com

MUTRIKU 943 603 378 · www.mutriku.net

OIARTZUN - OARSOALDEA 943 494 521 · www.oarsoaldea-turismo.net

OÑATI 943 783 453 · www.oinati.org

ORDIZIA 943 882 290 · www.delikatuz.com

ORIO 943 835 565 · www.oriora.com

ORMAIZTEGI 943 889 900 · www.zumalakarregimuseoa.net

PASAIA-OARSOALDEA 943 341 556 · www.oarsoaldea-turismo.net

SAN SEBASTIÁN TOURISM 943 481 166 · www.sansebastianturismo.com

SEGURA (ARDIXARRA HOUSE) 943 801 749 · www.seguragoierri.net

TOLOSA TOLOSALDEA TOUR 943 697 413 · www.tolosaldea.net

ZARAUTZ 943 830 990 · www.turismozarautz.com

ZEGAMA 943 802 187 · www.zegamaturismoa.net

ZERAIN 943 801 505 · www.zerain.com

ZESTOA943 147 010 · www.zestoa.net

ZUMAIA 943 143 396 · www.zumaia.net/turismo

Nature Reserves

URDAIBAI BIOSPHERE RESERVE944 650 822 · www.busturialdeaurdaibai.com946 870 402 (Ihobe) · www.torremadariaga.net

GORBEIA NATURAL PARK945 430 709 · 946 739 279Gorbeialdea · www.gorbeialdea.com www.gorbeiacentralpark.com

AIZKORRI-ARATZ NATURAL PARK943 782 894 · www.gipuzkoamendizmendi.net

ARALAR NATURAL PARK 943 180 285 · 943 582 069www.gipuzkoamendizmendi.net

URKIOLA NATURAL PARK946 814 155 · www.urkiola.net

ARMAÑÓN NATURAL PARK946 801 356 · www.enkartur.net

PAGOETA NATURAL PARK943 835 389 · www.aiapagoeta.comwww.gipuzkoamendizmendi.net

AIAKO HARRIA NATURAL PARK943 494 521 · 943 495 069www.oarsoaldea-turismo.net

IZKI NATURAL PARK945 410 502

VALDEREJO NATURAL PARK945 353 146

Birding

BIRDING EUSKADI945 003 278 · www.birdingeuskadi.com

Geoparks

GEOPARKEAwww.geoparkea.com

Surf

SURFING EUSKADI946 195 861 · www.surfingeuskadi.com

Trekking

TREKKING IN THE BASQUE COUNTRY945 354 006 · www.senderismoeuskadi.net

THE ROAD TO SANTIAGOwww.euskaditurismo.netwww.oriodonejakue.net

BTT and Greenways

BTT EUSKADIwww.btteuskadi.net

GREENWAYSwww.viasverdes.com

Active Tourism

AKTIBA944 389 868 · 637 770 033 · www.aktiba.info

Transport

Álava

AIRPORT945 163 500 · 945 163 591www.aena.es

TRAINS RenfeEduardo Dato 46, Vitoria-Gasteiz902 240 202 · www.renfe.es

BUSES Central Station of Vitoria-Gasteiz · 945 258 400Urban buses of Vitoria-Gasteiz TUVISA945 161 054 · www.vitoria-gasteiz.org/transporte

TRAM Euskotran945 135 554 · 902 543 210www.euskotren.es

Biscay

AIRPORTBilbao-Loiu · 902 404 704 (AENA) · 944 031 444 www.aena.es

CRUISES AND FERRIES944 871 200 · www.bilbaoport.es

TRAINSAbando Indalecio Prieto Train Station (Renfe)Plaza Circular, 2 · 902 320 320 · www.renfe.es

Atxuri Train Station (EUSKOTREN) Calle Atxuri 68 · 902 543 210 / 944 019 900 www.euskotren.es

Concordia Train Station; FEVE Bilbao Calle de Bailén 2 · 944 250 615 · www.feve.es

BUSESTermibus (Bus terminal) Gurtubai 1 · 944 395 077 · www.termibus.es

Bilbobus (City buses)944 484 070 · 944 790 981 www.bilbao.net/bilbobus

Bizkaibus (Provincial and airport buses) 902 222 265 · ww.bizkaia.net METRO BILBAO 944 254 000 · www.metrobilbao.net

TRAMS902 543 210 · 944 019 900 · www.euskotren.es

Gipuzkoa

AIRPORT Gabarri 22 · 20280 Hondarribia943 668 500 · www.aena.es

BUSESDonostia-San Sebastián Bus StationPlaza Pío XII

Dbus (City buses)943 000 200www.dbus.es

Lurralde Bus (Intercity buses)943 000 117www.lurraldebus.net

TRAINSNorth Train Station of Donostia-San SebastiánPaseo de Francia · 902 240 202 www.renfe.es/cercanias

Amara Train Station (Euskotren)Paseo de Easo 9 · 902 543 210 · 943 013 500www.euskotren.es

Gastronomy Museums

THE D'ELIKATUZ FOOD AND GASTRONOMY INTERPRETATION CENTRE Oridizia · 943 882 290 · www.delikatuz.comTHE IDIAZABAL CHEESE INTERPRETATION CENTRE943 188 203 · www.idiazabalgaztarenmuseoa.com


BASQUE GOVERNMENTMinistry for Economic Development

and Competitiveness

bilbao san sebastián€¦ · the guggenheim museum of bilbao. frank gehry's stunning...

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